1959 AHSME Problems/Problem 19

Problem

With the use of three different weights, namely $1$ lb., $3$ lb., and $9$ lb., how many objects of different weights can be weighed, if the objects is to be weighed and the given weights may be placed in either pan of the scale? $\textbf{(A)}\ 15 \qquad\textbf{(B)}\ 13\qquad\textbf{(C)}\ 11\qquad\textbf{(D)}\ 9\qquad\textbf{(E)}\ 7$

Solution

The heaviest object that could be weighed with this set weighs $1 + 3 + 9 = 13$ lb., and we can weigh any positive integer weight at most that. This means that $13$ different objects could be weighed, so our answer is $\boxed{\textbf{(B)}}$ and we are done.

1959 AHSC (Problems • Answer Key • Resources)
Preceded by Problem 18	Followed by Problem 20
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1959 AHSME Problems/Problem 19

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